Migrant Families Living at Seaport Will Soon Be Leaving Fairhaven

FAIRHAVEN (WBSM) — The migrant families that are currently being housed in the Seaport Resort & Marina in Fairhaven will soon be moved to another location outside of the town.

According to a release from the Town of Fairhaven, “the State’s Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) has notified the Town” that the families “will begin to be transferred to an alternate facility outside of Fairhaven in the coming weeks.”

Once the families are moved out, the Seaport will no longer operate as a supplemental shelter.

“The state advised the Town that this decision is part of a strategic initiative aimed at streamlining resources and enhancing the efficiency of services provided to those in need,” the release stated.

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It was announced in late September of last year that unsheltered families would be housed at the Seaport, a move which was met with protest on the day of their planned arrival.

Migrant families were also sheltered under state care at the Orbits Inn in Somerset, at two motels in Wareham, and at lodging facilities in Dartmouth.

Throughout the time that the unsheltered families – many of whom were reportedly from Haiti – were housed at the Seaport, numerous donations were made of clothing and supplies to assist them during their time in Fairhaven.

“We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of the Fairhaven community during this process,” the release stated. “The Town also extends its appreciation to the various Town departments, leaders, community organizations and individuals that came together to assist with welcoming and supporting the families as they were placed in shelter.”

“Their commitment underscores the strength of our community and its ability to come together to address the challenges faced by these families.”

As emergency shelter costs are approaching $1 billion annually in the Bay State, Governor Maura Healey recently said she plans to drain a $700 million state escrow account to cover a portion of those costs.